On the Process of EPBD Implementation in Poland

Keywords: EPBD, PZITS, Polish Energy Efficiency Act, Poland

The new (revised in 2024) Energy Performance of Buildings Directive (EPBD) continues earlier regulations concerning the energy efficiency of buildings, which have been gradually introduced since 2002 at both the European Union and national levels in Poland. The objective of these regulations is to rationalize energy consumption in existing buildings and to ensure that new constructions meet appropriate energy performance standards.

As part of the implementation of Directive 2024/1275, the Polish Ministry of Development and Technology anticipates necessary amendments to:

·         The Polish Act on the Energy Performance of Buildings, together with its executive acts;

·         The Polish Construction Law Act and the Regulation on technical conditions to be met by buildings and their location;

·         The Polish Regulation on the detailed scope and form of construction design documentation.

Possible amendments are also anticipated to:

·         The Polish Act on Electromobility and Alternative Fuels;

·         The Polish Energy Efficiency Act;

·         The Polish Regulation on conditions for the use of residential buildings.

In January 2025, preliminary consultations were held regarding the draft of National Building Renovation Plan, the preparation of which was supported by a consortium consisting of the Polish National Energy Conservation Agency (KAPE), the National Energy Conservation Agency (NAPE), and the Institute for Reform Foundation.

The Plan is a strategic document presenting measures and actions aimed at ensuring the renovation of the national stock of residential and non-residential buildings, both public and private, in order to achieve highly energy-efficient, zero-emission, and decarbonized building stock in Poland by 2050. Consequently, the plan will set optimal directions for the renovation of buildings currently in use, replacing the "Long-Term Building Renovation Strategy" adopted by the Council of Ministers on February 9, 2022.

Legislative work is currently still underway in Poland on the draft act amending the Act on the Energy Performance of Buildings and other related acts. These amendments are intended to systematize and strengthen the role of energy performance certificates, modify the frequency of inspections of heating and air-conditioning systems, introduce automation of technical systems in buildings, promote the use of solar energy, and support the development of mobility infrastructure in parking facilities associated with buildings.

Poland has already fulfilled its obligations under Article 17 of Directive 2024/1275 by discontinuing, as of January 2025, the provision of financial incentives for the purchase and installation of boilers powered by fossil fuels. This applies, among others, to the "Clean Air" program.